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GEAR SPOTLIGHT: FJALLRAVEN’S POLAR GUIDE PARKA

Although I live in LA where it’s never cold enough to wear a parka, I did make it to colder temperatures in Amsterdam, New York and Central California this winter. With me on those trips: the Fjallraven Polar Guide Parka.

Since I won’t be taking any more cold weather trips for awhile (although I’m dreaming of a ski trip in New Zealand this summer / their winter), I’m about to put my Polar Guide Parka away for a few months.

In thinking about how well it treated me this winter, and in thinking about how well it’ll treat me for countless winters to come, I realized — every man should really own a good parka. Even if you don’t live somewhere freezing cold, it’s nice to be prepared for those cold moments with a parka that is well-made, warm and timelessly stylish.

In fact, you should think of a parka is an investment piece. Like a tailored suit or a quality watch.

But well made parkas don’t come cheap — which is why I’m putting the idea of buying one on your radar right now — right before winter clearance sales begin. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to snag one at a good price and have it ready to go for next winter. So remember, this March, April and May, keep an eye out for winter clothing sales online and at stores like REI.

Trevor is a traveler, writer and video maker on a mission to help you craft the best travel experiences possible. From adventurous trips with friends, to romantic trips with someone special, to splurge-worthy trips of a lifetime, he's got you covered.

Hi Trevor,
The jacket looks great and unique.
If its around 5-8 degrees Celsius, the jacket might be too hot for walking around?
My body measurements are identical as yours – small size seems a bit bulky, should you suggest giving a try to XS? I don’t like it too baggy. Thanks

Hey Boe — yes, for 5-8 degrees Celsius the jacket would most likely be too hot for walking around (maybe unzipped it would be fine). And for size, it depends on your chest/shoulder measurements, but I think you’d want a small so it’s not too tight.